Camping near Hanover, Pennsylvania offers access to the southeastern foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, with elevations ranging from 400-600 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-90°F, while spring and fall camping seasons experience wider temperature fluctuations requiring layered clothing. Most campgrounds in this region sit within a 30-minute drive of Hanover's downtown area.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground provides shore access for catching bass and bluegill at Pinchot Lake. "We caught a handful of bass and an absurd amount of bluegill from shore," notes camper Danielle V., who also recommends checking the day use areas for prime fishing spots.
Historic battlefield exploration: Artillery Ridge Campground connects directly to battlefield trails. "Direct access to battlefield trails right there," says Peter K., who appreciated the campground's proximity to historic sites. The campground served as an artillery storage area during the Civil War, creating a unique historical camping experience.
Disc golf courses: Gifford Pinchot offers two 18-hole disc golf courses with different difficulty levels. "Both areas have their own 18 hole disc golf course, but I will say: BEWARE of poison ivy!! We played the first 10 holes around the Conewago day use area and I was shocked at how much poison ivy we had to dodge," warns one visitor who recommends the flatter Conewago course for beginners.
Trail hiking: Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground sits at the midpoint of the Appalachian Trail. "We did a very nice run from our campsite out to the scenic viewpoint on top of Pole Steeple (about 7ish miles)," reports Carly E., who recommends cooling off in the lake afterward. The park maintains multiple trail difficulty levels suitable for day hikers.
What Campers Like
Waterfront camping sites: Gettysburg Campground offers tent sites along a creek. "We were in tent sites which felt bigger than most and were right by river. not far to go anywhere walking," notes Kelly J. The creek provides natural white noise for sleeping and keeps the area slightly cooler during summer heat.
Farm animals for children: Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm maintains a working farm where kids can interact with animals. "We've enjoyed mini-golf, feeding the animals, 'hiking' through the cornfield, fishing, and campfires," says Kasey M. The campground schedules daily animal feeding times when children can participate.
Clean facilities: "The bathhouse was clean. The laundry facility was clean, all machines operational," reports Dale Y. about Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm. Multiple campgrounds near Hanover maintain modern bathhouse facilities with regular cleaning schedules, especially important for families with younger children.
Shaded sites: "The campground features a very natural, rustic setting - much more so than any other KOA I've visited," notes a visitor about Gettysburg/Battlefield KOA. Many dog friendly campgrounds near Hanover feature wooded sites that provide natural cooling during hot summer days.
What You Should Know
Pet restrictions vary: Gettysburg/Battlefield KOA has designated pet areas separated from non-pet areas. "The campground was just minutes from downtown Gettysburg," adds Ray L., who appreciated the well-stocked camp store. Call ahead to confirm current pet policies and vaccination requirements.
Cell service limitations: "Cell service is pretty much nonexistent in the campground, so keep this in mind if you can't be out of touch (we had Verizon)," warns Carly E. about Pine Grove Furnace State Park. Several campgrounds in heavily wooded areas report similar connectivity challenges.
Site selection tips: "We stayed in site 114. It has water access and is right next to a small man made beach and playground," advises a visitor to Gifford Pinchot State Park. Researching specific site numbers before booking helps secure the most desirable locations, especially during peak season when dog friendly campgrounds near Hanover fill quickly.
Seasonal considerations: Pine Grove Furnace State Park Campground operates from March through mid-December, while other area campgrounds close earlier. Always confirm seasonal opening dates when planning fall or spring visits, as water systems may shut down before official closing dates.
Tips for Camping with Families
Educational opportunities: Merry Meadows Recreation Farm offers structured activities for children. "We stayed here this past Easter and they had plenty of activities for kids and adults. Easter egg hunts for kids, adult scavenger hunts for alcohol," says Melissa E., highlighting the family-oriented programming.
Playground access: "The pool through RV sites are in the centerfield and kind of exposed to the elements but you are right across from the pool and right across from an amazing playground," notes Brian S. about Merry Meadows. Many campgrounds cluster family amenities like playgrounds, pools, and game rooms in central locations.
Swimming options: "There is no swimming allowed in the lake but there is a pool located at the park, there is no extra cost to use the pool if you are at the campground," explains Catherine H. about Codorus State Park. Families should check whether swimming areas require additional fees or have age restrictions.
Kid-friendly trails: "Paved roads for bike rides! Tons of wonderful trails to explore!" shares Amanda H. about Pine Grove Furnace State Park. Many campgrounds maintain beginner-friendly trails suitable for younger hikers within the campground boundaries.
Tips from RVers
Big rig accessibility: "We stayed in site 55. Big site but hard to get into. There are a couple of pull thru sites that are much easier," advises Bill B. about Gettysburg/Battlefield KOA. RVers with larger units should specifically request pull-through sites when available.
Hookup variations: "All sites have water and electric, but not all are 50 amp sites. About half the sites have sewer, but there are two dump stations that are centrally located and easy to get to," explains Gregory L. about Gettysburg Battlefield Resorts. Always confirm the specific hookups available at reserved sites.
Leveling requirements: "Make sure to bring your leveling blocks, some sites do have a slope to them of 3-4"," warns Gregory L. about Gettysburg Battlefield Resorts. RVers report varying site conditions even within the same campground, making leveling equipment essential.
Water access planning: "If traveling in an RV you will need to fill your fresh water tank as each site does not have water hook up," advises Adam P. about Pine Grove Furnace State Park. Several state park campgrounds provide electrical hookups without individual water connections.
